Publication

This paper focuses on the dynamics and scope of strategic culture-building in the context of the European Union's aspirations to develop a European security and defence policy (ESDP). It argues that the notion of strategic culture can be useful in assessing the context in which the ESDP will develop further as well as its performance in matters of conflict prevention, management and resolution. The paper suggests three theories to explain convergence informed by realist, constructivist and regional theories of political change. These forces can affect national strategic cultures differently, depending on the countries’ geopolitical positions and domestic values and norms.